Requirements for Egress Windows to Replace Standard Sized Bedroom and Basement Windows
Egress windows are a means of escaping your home safely and quickly due to a life-threatening emergency such as a fire. They have been around for many years and many homeowners utilizing this style of windows in their homes. However, the regulations and standards that exist for egress windows have changed. This article will outline those changes.
As most homeowners have standard window sizes installed in their homes, they are not aware of the current regulations regarding egress windows. They later find out that their windows are not meeting the fire code standards in the area in which they reside. This could lead to disaster as well as breaking the law.
Requirements for Egress Windows and Where They Should Be Installed
Requirements for bedroom windows established by The National Building Code of Canada (NBCC):
- Bedroom windows must provide sufficient ventilation year-round.
- They must provide at least 5% light to the floor portion of the room.
- They must be sized properly to provide an escape route in the event of an emergency.
- Must be able to be opened from the inside without the use of tools, hardware, keys, or special instructions.
NB: Building codes vary by province, but the egress style slider and casement windows generally meet these standards.
Minimum Size Required by NBCC for Egress Window
According to the NBCC, egress window size should be as follows:
- Egress windows must provide an unencumbered opening with the following dimensions:
- Dimension: no less than 380 mm (15 in.)
- Area: no less than 0.35 m2 (3.8ft2)
NB: In order to meet these standards, measure your windows between the opening mechanisms as well as the jams, sills, sashes.
Additional Requirements for Egress Windows
- Must not be more than 1.5m higher than the floor.
- Security bars must be operable from the inside and not require tools or special instructions to be opened.
- Egress windows are not required if a sprinkler system is installed in the room.
Requirements for Basement Windows:
- As basement windows are usually higher than 1.5 m than the floor, they must have a step built below to provide emergency access. Window wells are required to be 760 m from the window These openings should be 30 in deep.
Converting Standard Size Basement Windows to Egress Window Size
- In most cases, these windows will be converted to bedroom-style basement windows, thus they may require concrete cutting.
NB: It is recommended to contact a window replacement company contractor to ensure the window meets the regulations as they have the correct dimensions on the build codes in your area. This may require a secure cutout permit from your municipality.
Contact your local windows company if you need to replace your basement or bedroom windows with egress windows. Let them know of your intentions at the initial consultation. They will be able to assist you in the process.
